Jack Combs

Location of Interview
Collection Name

Long Island Traditions

Description

Folklorist Nancy Solomon has documented the maritime culture of Long Island through these interviews spanning the years 1987 – 2016. The collection includes baymen, fishermen, boat builders and other maritime tradition bearers.   

Interviewer
Date of Interview
05-01-1998
Transcribers

National Capital Contracting
Molly Graham

Principal Investigator
Audio
Supplemental Material
Biographical Sketch

Jack Combs was born on May 1, 1988, and grew up in Freeport and Massapequa, Long Island. He spent his childhood surrounded by the bay and developed a deep connection to the marine environment. Jack's family owned a bay house and a houseboat on Goose Creek. His father and grandfather played significant roles in shaping his love for the bay, with fishing trips in Greenport and oyster shucking being regular activities. He later took over Captain Jack's Bait Station, where he continued the family tradition of stunts and tricks to entertain customers.

Scope and Content Note
Jack Combs, a lifelong resident of Freeport and Massapequa on Long Island, had a deep connection to the bay and its marine life. Growing up in a family with a rich fishing heritage, Jack learned valuable lessons from his father and grandfather, including fishing techniques, oyster shucking, and the importance of humor. As Jack grew older, he became involved in various aspects of bay life. He learned trap building from his grandfather and became the record keeper of bay life, documenting the seasons, crabs, nets, and other elements of the ecosystem. He also engaged in scalloping, clam digging, and carving decoys. His connection to the bay extended beyond work, as he enjoyed hunting, exploring survival skills, and witnessing the beauty of the wildlife. Taking over Captain Jack's Bait Station, he continued the family tradition of entertaining customers with stunts and tricks. Jack became a record keeper of bay life, documenting the seasons, crabs, nets, and other aspects of the ecosystem. He engaged in scalloping, clam digging, carving decoys, and enjoyed hunting and survival skills. Over time, he witnessed significant changes in the bay and the fishing industry. Despite temporarily leaving to work on tugboats, Jack's connection to the bay remained strong, and he returned to his roots. His experiences and knowledge made him a respected figure among the baymen, fostering a sense of camaraderie within the community.


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